Making synthetic fluids for electric vehicles
Challenge: Electric vehicles (EV) are here and growing fast. Automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are making massive investments in developing EV technology, which requires lubricant formulators to meet new requirements. EV fluids must balance e-module lubrication with thermal management and electrical properties, demanding innovative formulation solutions.
How we can help: Group IV and Group V synthetic base oils can help formulators develop more efficient fluids for EV applications with outstanding properties compared to mineral oils for a safe, efficient and long service life. Our experts are also developing novel molecules that can help meet new performance targets for EV fluids. Let’s collaborate to ensure you can achieve your goals.
Lubricant solutions
EV driveline fluids
EV driveline fluids must balance effective lubrication in integrated e-module systems (which include gearboxes, e-motors, bearings, clutches, electrical components) with thermal management, electrical properties and compatibility with new materials. EV driveline fluids are also key to achieving energy efficiency, which can enable extended range.
EV thermal management fluids
Fluids used for thermal management in EVs are designed to help regulate the temperature of the battery, electronics and the e-motor and windings. ExxonMobil hydrocarbon fluids don’t conduct electricity and can provide efficient thermal management.
Market trends
The EV fluids market continues to evolve as OEMs and lubricant manufacturers explore ways to meet the challenges of this new technology. We’ll likely see rapid changes in the future within this market as technology solutions emerge.
1. The EV market is growing
The EV market is expanding rapidly. OEMs around the world now offer more than 200 EV models, and the ExxonMobil Outlook for Energy 2019 predicts that approximately 50% of vehicle sales will be EV by 2040. Lubricant manufacturers must develop new fluids that satisfy the diverse needs of this growing automotive technology. Innovation is critical and must be done with a sense of urgency.
2. EVs require optimized fluids
Meeting the lubricant requirements of electric vehicles demands optimized fluids that provide performance capabilities including:
- Thermal management
- Oxidative stability
- Energy efficiency
- Electrical properties
- Wear and durability
- Corrosion resistance
- Material compatibility
Synthetic base oils help formulators achieve these performance goals. We’re eager to work with you to help you develop optimized fluids to meet the needs of this growing market.
Inside insights
Explore ways we can help your business.
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Suite of solutions
Explore the formulation and performance advantages provided by our suite of advanced synthetic base stocks.
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Investing in reliable supply
Through significant investment in global synthetic base stock capacity expansion, we can deliver what you need where and when you need it.
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Synovation video - Volatility
Discover how synthetic base stocks are more able to resist evaporation and degradation due to high temperatures than mineral-based oils.
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SpectraSyn Elite™ mPAO
High-viscosity metallocene polyalphaolefin base stock provides high performance at a wide temperature range and exceptional low-temperature properties.
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SpectraSyn Plus™ PAO
Advanced low-viscosity synthetic base stock for low volatility and low-temperature fluidity to produce advanced lubricants.
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SpectraSyn™ Hi Vis PAO
High viscosity base stock especially suited for industrial oils requiring high stability under harsh operating conditions.
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SpectraSyn™ Low Vis PAO
Low viscosity base stock offering low-temperature fluidity, low volatility and improved thermal stability.
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Synesstic™ AN
Alkylated naphthalene base stock often used as blend component for additive solvency, seal compatibility and hydrolytic stability.
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Esterex™ esters
Organic esters are well-suited as a blend component for additive solvency, seal compatibility or biodegradability.